Career Services, Chamber of Commerce to hold Lunch and Learn event

Troy University Career Services is partnering with the Pike County Chamber of Commerce to hold a Lunch and Learn event at the Idea Bank on Feb. 25 from 11:30 to 1:30 p.m. 

“This informal, interactive session will highlight how employers can develop new internship programs, refine existing ones and partner with Troy University to connect with talented students while building a strong future workforce,” said the Pike County Chamber of Commerce on their website.  

The event is open to all local businesses interested in partnering with Troy University to begin taking in student interns. A free lunch will also be provided.  

“I’m most looking forward to having several of my former interns and students share their success stories firsthand, because nothing is more powerful than students explaining how an internship transformed their confidence and career trajectory,” said Dr. Lane Chadwick, professor of economics and finance and one of the guest speakers for the event. “Experiential learning, in many forms, changes lives and when education and industry work together, we create pathways that help students thrive long after graduation.” 

The event will feature other guest speakers from a wide range of disciplines across Troy’s campus such as Associate Director of HSTM Dr. Rob Mathner, Director of the Hall School of Journalism Dr. Robbyn Taylor and Interim Director of the Center for Material Sciences and Manufacturing Dr. Raj Vinnakota.  

“I’m truly excited about the diversity of this panel,” Vinnakota said. “It brings together professionals from different backgroundsand perspectives, each with meaningful experience in workforce development and student mentorship. 

“The panelists understand the importance of guiding students not only academically, but also professionally. They recognize the value of connecting students with industry early in their academic journey and understand how these relationships directly impactstudent success after graduation. 

“Their combined experience in industry, leadership, and student engagement will provide valuable insight into how strong partnerships between employers and universities create lasting career pathways.” 

The Lunch and Learn event is one of the many ways Troy University is bridging the gap between students eager to enter the workforce and the local businesses excited to receive them.The hope is that this will lead to more internships becoming available to Troy students in the near future.  

Those who are interested in attending the Lunch and Learn event can scan the QR code found on the university’s Career Services Instagram @troyucareer to register or contact Arminda McKee at amckee62538@troy.edu for more information. 

“Internships are one of the most powerful bridges between education and industry,” Vinnakota said. “When universities and employers collaborate meaningfully, we create stronger local talent ecosystems, retain graduates in the region and support the region's economic growth. 

“Events like this demonstrate that Troy University and our regional partners are committed to building that future together.”